Cactus Plants

With so many different types of Cactus Plants available for sale it is easy to become a little lost when looking for information on cactus for the home. One thing to look for when buying any plants is a fact sheet outlining individual growing requirements. And when it come to growing from seed, look for comprehensive seed germination note specific to the cactus species you are considering.

We can say that many species make wonderful garden plants, and of course many also grow well in pots and containers. In fact container growing both indoors and out is a favoured method of growing in Australia. You can browse our individual species pages for pictures of a variety of cactus. A google image search is also worth while for the beginner. Consider joining the Australian Cactus and Succulent Society to gain access to a wealth of knowledge.

Growing Information

Basic information on growing cactus relates to potting mix, watering, warmth and light. If these factors are suitable you should have little to no problems with care and propagation.

Potting Mix

One of the main keys is the choice of potting mix, although cacti grow in a range of soil types they have one factor in common, they are free draining. Proprietary potting mixes are readily available from most good garden centres. Another option is 'make your own' . A mix of sandy loam, sharp sand and composted pine bark seems to be a favourite.

One of the major problems with cacti, and other potted plants is failure to repot as required. All potting mixes become exhausted after 2 - 3 years, the structure breaks down over time, plants also outgrow pots in time. Repot during dormancy and replace all of the potting mix. ALways water well after repotting.

Fertilizer

Fertilizer is of course required and although cacti seem to be tough plants they actually do need regular fertilizer. We use liquid seaweed fertilizer during the growing season and a general purpose slow release fertilizer at the beggining if the growing season.

The active period of growth for cacti is from spring to summer and this is when watering is important. As a rule of thumb, potting mix should be allowed to almost dry out between watering, overwatering is a major problem. During winter no watering is generally required.

Light and Heat

Seen as desert and arid area plants cacti do in deed cope with heat, they do however require some protection from the extrems of heat. In nature many species grow best in areas of afternoon shade. And as for humidity, nearly all species come from arid (dry) climates, humidity and cactus really do not mix

Indoors and Outdoors.

Although many species grow well indoors lack of light can inhibit or prevent flowering. So ask your suppliers about particular needs.